POEMS 

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L.ADDA  NICHOLS 


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LI-BRARY 

OF     ' 

UNIVERSITY  OF  CALIFORNIA. 


DELPHINE 


AND 


OTHER      POEMS 


BY 


ADDA    NICHOLS 


"It  is  good  for  us  to  think  no  grace  or  blessing  truly  ours 
until  we  are  aware  God  has  blessed  some  one  else  with  it 
through  us." — Phillips  Brooks. 


' 

Of  THE 


SAN    FRANCISCO 

THE    WHITAKER    &    RAY   COMPANY 

(INCORPORATED) 

IQOI 


•  ENERAL 


COPYRIGHT  1901 

BY 
L.  ADDA    NICHOLS 


TO   THE   MEMORY   OF 

FATHER   AND    MOTHER 

THIS   BOOK   IS   LOVINGLY   DEDICATED 


118364 


DELPHINE 


AND 


OTHER    POEMS 


If  you  know  a  happy  song, 

Sing  it,  yes,  sing  it; 
It  will  rest  some  lueary  heart, 
To  the  sad  new  life  impart ; 

So  if  you  know  a  happy  song, 
Sing  it  from  the  heart. 

If  you  know  the  wondrous  story , 

Tell  it,  yes,  tell  it  ; 
If  you  love  the  Lord  of  glory, 
If  you  love  the  old,  old  story, 

The  story  of  redeeming  love, 
Tell  it  from  the  heart. 


DELPHINE 

AND 

OTHER    POEMS. 


DELPHINE. 


Here  flows  the  smiling  Manistee 

Leisurely  onward  toward  the  sea  ; 

And  winding  through  the  hills  along, 

Fills  all  the  valley  with  sweet  song 

Of  rippling  waves  that  smile  and  kiss 

Its  own  green  banks  with  nature's  bliss ; 

Until  at  last  it  pours  its  charms 

Into  the  broad  Pacific's  arms. 

Now  mirrored  in  its  depths  so  clear 

The  fleecy,  floating  clouds  appear ; 

And  toward  the  setting  of  the  sun 

Upon  a  summer  afternoon, 

A  glowing  picture  one  oft  sees 

Reflected  from  o'erhanging  trees 

From  farther  bank,  like  gleams  of  fire, — 

Naught's  left  of  beauty  to  desire. 

Its  waves  doth  many  secrets  keep 

For  those  who  dream  and  those  who  weep; 


16  DELPHINE. 

And  'neath  the  bridge  so  grey  and  old 
Hath  heard  the  story  often  told 
Of  love  and  grief,  of  pain  and  loss, 
So  deep  that  nothing  but  the  Cross 
Of  Calvary  could  heal  and  bless 
With  its  own  balm  of  tenderness 
The  weary  hearts  that  long  and  wait 
The  opening  of  the  unseen  gate. 
Dear  Manistee  !  for  aye  flow  on; 
The  pride  of  one  small  country  town, 
That  nestles  by  thy  purling  stream, 
Among  the  hills  where  poets  dream ; 
And  where  life's  nobler  after-thought 
Outside  the  world  of  strife  is  wrought. 

Here  where  the  wheels  of  labor  sound, 
And  honest  thought  and  peace  abound, 
And  laborers  with  the  sinewy  hand 
And  stalwart  frame  respect  command, 
Fair  Delphine  lies.     What  memories  flame 
At  mention  of  this  cherished  name; 
Of  faithful  friends  of  other  days 
Who  dwelt  among  these  quiet  ways, 


DELPHINE.  17 

And  by  the  social,  bright  fireside 

Exchange  of  thought  new  themes  supplied. 

Thus  while  around  the  cheerful  fire 

The  huge  logs  burned  still  higher  and  higher 

And  threw  such  genial  glow  apace 

As  lighted  up  each  eager  face. 

One  friend  by  full  consent  had  gained 
Name  of  "  the  Master  "  ;  for  he  reigned 
Unconsciously  and  with  sweet  zest ; 
His  years  outnumbering  the  rest ; 
And  from  the  love-light  in  his  eyes 
Bespoke  a  nature  meekly  wise. 
Of  him  it  was  devoutly  said, 
Who  much  of  God  and  nature  read  : 
"  His  present  seems  a  dream  to  be, 
The  future  his  reality." 

A  younger  and  a  growing  light 
See  in  this  fireside  group  at  night, 
Geor  ge  Markham  ;  pastor  in  the  place  ; 
Whose  creed  is  written  in  his  face ; 
And  you  could  read  it  from  the  start : 
11  Heaven  and  earth  not  far  apart." 


18  DELPHINE. 

One  person  hard  to  be  described, 
Who  of  full  measure  had  imbibed 
Of  gospel  truth,  of  wit  and  grace, 
And  in  the  group  held  central  place. 
A  man  who  spoke  in  homely  phrase, 
Uncultured,  only  in  the  ways 
Of  heaven-taught  truth  ;  a  speaker  bold, 
Who  won  the  hearts  of  young  and  old, 
David  Rook  ;  gardener  and  friend, 
Whose  common  work  serves  highest  end. 

One  of  this  club  of  five  we  see 
A  business  man  of  high  degree  ; 
While  from  the  city  for  short  stay 
Had  to  this  fireside  found  his  way. 

And  let  us  now  acquaintance  make 
With  one  McColl ;  all  for  the  sake 
Of  others  who  like  him  may  roam 
In  darkness,  and  to  light  may  come. 

Invigorating  breezes  flow 
Through  trees  of  pine,  inviting  so 


DELPHINE.  19 

The  seekers  after  health  to  try 

The  simple  remedies  that  lie 

In  change  and  rest ;  thus  some  have  come 

To  make  Delphine  awhile  their  home  ; 

And  list  to  woodland  music  free 

Beside  the  rippling  Manistee. 

This  guest,  McColl,  a  sadness  wore  ; 

Oppressive  grief  was  brooding  o'er 

His  very  life  ;  a  sorrow  dark 

Entwined  with  doubts  had  crushed  the  spark 

Of  hope's  last  ray  and  faith  and  trust ; 

''  If  there's  a  God  he  can't  be  just," 

He  moaned  ;  u  0  where's  my  wife,  my  boy  ? 

Is  there  a  heaven  ?  a  place  of  joy  ? 

Or  is  there  not  ?  and  do  they  sleep 

Forever  in  oblivion  deep  ? 

A  home  once  bright  with  childish  glee, 

And  ruled  by  queenly  dignity, 

In  one  brief  day  forever  fled, 

And  all  life's  hopes  lie  crushed  and  dead  ; 

What  mockings  at  my  longings  come, 

A  waiting  drear  and  dread  and  dumb." 


DELPHINE. 

George  Markham  in  his  study  bent 

With  pen  in  hand  and  thought  intent 

Upon  the  Sunday  sermon  there, 

That  none  might  lack  their  needed  share 

Of  comfort  and  instruction  given 

In  the  sweet  message  sent  from  heaven 

To  those  who  from  the  factory  come, 

And  from  the  simple  rural  home 

To  rest  their  weary  hands  and  mind, 

And  some  new  gospel  treasure  find  ; 

And  be,  through  words  that  he  should  speak, 

"  Willing  to  live  another  week." 

Meanwhile  McColl  had  wandered  out, 
And  half  unconsciously,  no  doubt, 
Had  found  him  at  the  study  door 
Where  he  had  been  ofttimes  before. 
The  pastor  hearty  welcome  gave, 
But  noted  his  pale  face  and  grave  ; 
With  lines  of  sorrow  deeper  laid 
Since  first  his  prized  acquaintance  made. 
But  interruptions  courted  he 
If  he  could  help  a  soul  at  sea. 


DELPHINE.  21 

This  man  of  culture,  traveled  wide, 
A  man  of  wealth  and  seeming  pride. 
But  noble  character  possessed  ; — 
With  honest  doubts  a  soul  distressed. 

When  with  exchange  of  pleasant  word, 

And  from  the  grate  the  fire  was  stirred, 

McColl  the  question  had  essayed 

To  ask  what  subject  he'd  arrayed 

For  coming  sermon,  "  that  I  see 

Is  brushed  aside,  for  which  blame  me." 

"  'Tis  time  to  rest."  Markham  replied, — 

"  My  subject's  one  that's  deep  and  wide ; 

No  less  than  '  The  significance 

And  use  of  sorrow  '  ;  which  perchance 

May  find  response  with  some  who've  wrought 

The  problem  out,  or  thus  have  sought." 

McColl  remarked  with  bitterness  : 

u  You'll  talk  ten  minutes  more  or  less, 

Then  give  it  up  for  other  theme, 

Or  some  more  visionary  dream." 

"  Nay,  nay,  my  friend,  but  rather  I 


DELPHINE. 

Had  thought  discourse  to  multiply  ; 
The  theme  so  vast  now  on  my  hand 
Seems  wonderfully  to  expand. 

Now  my  belief,  as  you  may  know, 
Is  in  two  worlds  united  so, 
Though  one  the  other  cannot  see, 
In  speaking  distance  they  may  be." 
Then  from  his  library  shelf  he  took 
A  well-worn,  unpretending  book, 
And  from  its  pages  to  him  read 
A  little  story,  which,  he  said, 
Expressed  his  faith.     It  runs  this  way  : 
There  is  an  island,  so  they  say, 
Inhabited  by  fishermen 
In  low  rude  huts  ;  and  often  when 
Through  fog  and  mist  they  can't  discern 
Their  own  loved  dwellings,  nor  dare  turn 
Their  boats  too  near  the  rocky  shore, 
Their  voice  in  song  is  wafted  o'er  ; 
Then  wives  and  sweethearts  take  again 
The  next  verse  of  the  sweet  refrain  ; 
And  thus  they  know,  though  all  unseen, 


DELPHINE. 

That  no  great  distance  lies  between  ; 
And  they  can  well  with  patience  stay 
Until  the  mists  are  cleared  away. 

"I  can't  accept  it,"  hoarsely  said 
His  guest,  and  sadly  shook  his  head ; 
"The  theory  sounds  well  to  read, 
But  can't  be  true;  ah,  no,  indeed  !" 

"  But,  friend,  supposing  it  were  true, 
Would  it  not  be  worth  much  to  you  ? 
And  do  you  not  think  it  worth  while 
To  study  it,  and  thus  beguile 
Your  weary  hours  of  grief  and  pain, 
And  from  it  consolation  gain? 
And  find  it  not  unreasonable, 
But,  rather,  true  and  beautiful  ?  • 
If  we  can't  rend  the  veil  and  see, 
It's  no  less  true  that  there  may  be, 
Not  far  away,  the  other  shore, 
And  heavenly  greetings  wafted  o'er ; 
Beyond  our  human  eyes  to  reach, 


24  DELPHINE. 

Or  human  ears  to  hear  the  speech  ; 
But  faith  can  see,  and  faith  can  hear, 
And  thus  bring  unseen  treasures  near." 

A  gleam  of  hope  a  moment  shone 
Across  his  face,  and  then  was  gone  ; 
With  grasp  of  hand  he  said  "  Good  night," 
Then  passed  into  the  street  from  sight. 

Now  once  a  week,  it  was  agreed, 

This  friendly  u  Club  of  Delphine,"  freed 

From  all  restraint,  should  meet  and  share 

Each  other's  thoughts,  and  notes  compare. 

The  parsonage  to  be  the  place 

This  genial  company  should  grace; 

And  from  the  pastor's  study  flow 

Rich  blessings  after  years  should  know 

From  "speaking  meetings,"  if  you  please, 

Where  each  one  felt  at  perfect  ease, 

Discussing  social  topics  when 

Seemed  drawn  that  way,  and  now  and  then 

Of  politics  they  took  a  view, 

All  with  good  nature  through  and  through. 


DELPHINE.  25 

But  mostly  valued  time  was  spent 
On  higher  themes,  with  the  intent 
To  help  McColl,  now  in  the  night 
Of  unbelief,  to  clearer  sight. 
And  one  strong  element  to  guide 
Was  David  Rook,  who  could  divide 
The  living  truth  in  homely  way  ; 
He  sent  his  arrows  swift  to  stay, 
Until  beyond  all  argument 
His  simple  faith  had  gained  assent. 
<;  Too  much  theology,"  would  say 
Our  gardener  quaint  and  in  his  way, 
uAnd  not  enough  religion  found, 
Sometimes  to  hardly  go  around. 
About  the  creeds  Christ  little  said, 
But  very  much  of  love  instead." 
The  Master  silent  sat  the  while, 
And  nodded  with  approving  smile. 

McColl  then  spoke :     "  I'd  like  to  know, 
If  you've  a  God  that  loves  us  so, 
Why  He  should  such  afflictions  send, 
And  weight  of  burden  that  it  bend 


DELPHINE. 

And  crush  our  very  life  apart, 

And  wrench  and  tear  the  human  heart 

Till  hope  is  dead,  yet  death  won't  come 

To  fiee  the  soul  with  anguish  dumb. 

Then  you  on  love  and  faith  expand ; 

I  surely  cannot  understand 

A  faith  so  blind;  but  wonder,  doul>t, 

Concerning  things  past  finding  out." 

"  Well,  now,"  said  David,  "  let  me  tell 
An  incident  remembered  well ; 
Crossing  a  lake,  some  time  ago, 
A  fog  and  mist  had  settled  low 
And  thick  about;  we  could  not  see 
Across  the  deck,  and  thought  that  we 
Were  in  much  danger,  when  I  went 
To  see  the  Captain  and  give  vent 
Unto  my  feelings  of  great  fear ; 
Where  he  was  standing  I  drew  near : 
1  Are  you  not  going  at  full  speed  ?' 
1  Certainly,  my  friend,  there's  need 
That  I  on  time  the  trip  should  make ; 
No  cause  that  I  the  record  break.' 


DELPHINE. 


1  Is  it  not  dangerous?'  I  ask; 
For  recklessness  took  him  to  task. 
'  I  care  not  for  the  fog/  said  he, 
*  The  compass  is  our  guide  at  sea  ; 
Always  by  that  our  course  we  take ; 
'Twas  never  known  to  make  mistake; 
Through  fog  and  mist,  through  night  and  day, 
The  needle  always  points  one  way.' 

I  And  can  you  tell  me  why  'tis  so  ?' 

I I  surely  can't,  nor  do  I  know, 
And  never  yet  have  heard  of  one 
Could  tell  just  how  the  work  was  done.' 
'  And  yet  you  trust  your  life,  and  feel 
Secure  with  that  one  bit  of  steel  ?' 

'  Yes,  every  time;  because  I  know 
It's  o'er  and  o'er  been  proven  true ; 
Hundreds  of  years  it  has  been  tried, 
Has  never  failed,  has  never  lied. 
The  mighty  ships  the  waters  plow, 
Laden  with  wealth  from  stern  to  bow, 
And  trusted  to  the  needle's  eye, 
Not  knowing  the  wherefore  nor  why; 
We  trust  what  we  can't  understand 


DELPHINE. 

h  day  we  live,  on  sea  or  land.' 
Thus  spake  the  Captain.     I  withdrew, 
Knowing  that  what  he  said  was  true." 

McColl  sank  back  into  his  chair, 

Silent,  but  with  more  hopeful  air ; 

George  Markham  stirred  the  waning  fire, 

And  while  the  sparks  and  flames  rise  higher 

And  fill  with  cheerful  light  the  room, 

Their  conversation  they  resume, 

Led  by  the  Master;  and  with  him 

The  business  man  of  mirth  and  vim 

The  company  oft  entertained, 

And  thus  the  interest  never  waned. 

The  moments  swiftly  fly,  and  when 

The  clock  rang  oui  the  hour  of  ten, 

They  rose  to  go :  each  one  possessed 

A  growing  friendship  for  the  rest. 

Aiid  David  thought,  but  left  unsaid  — 

"To-night  a  cornerstone's  been  laid.'1 

"  To-morrow's  sun  shines  on  to-day; 
Thus  easily  we  climb  the  way 


DELPHI  NE.  29 

That  otherwise  so  rough  and  steep 

Our  feet  from  stumbling  could  not  keep. 

'Tis  just  ahead  we  look  for  rest, 

That  makes  the  present  stand  the  test ; 

And  so  with  dauntless  courage  we 

Press  on  to  final  victory." 

Thus  spake  the  Master  when  around 

The  hearth  again  the  Club  was  found ; 

The  thoughts  that  led  to  these  remarks 

Were  like  the  scattered  flying  sparks 

Brushed  off  when  in  the  grate  we  turn 

The  log  to  make  it  brighter  burn. 

Each  one  contributed  a  share 

To  make  the  hour  a  profit  bear 

To  one  and  all,  each  in  his  sphere, 

And  thus  the  moments  brought  good  cheer. 

They  talked  of  ruling  kings  of  earth, 

Of  fame  and  wealth,  and  what  they're  worth. 

Then,  running  o'er  with  gratitude, 

Spoke  David  in  his  joyful  mood  : 

"  My  friends,  I  doubt  if  you  can  guess 

The  wondrous  riches  I  possess ; 

The  beauty  of  the  world  is  mine, 


:;o  DELPHINI-:. 

The  multitude  of  stare  that  shine, 
The  moon  with  all  her  silvery  light, 
And  all  the  glories  of  the  night; 
The  woodlands  and  the  birds  of  song 
To  me  without  reserve  belong. 
Ah,  yes  !  I  own  the  Manistee," 
Continued  David,  cheerily; 
"The  scenery  along  its  banks 
I  take  and  give  the  Father  thanks ; 
And  all  the  range  of  hills  that  rise, 
And  over  which  the  sunshine  lies; 
While  through  the  trees  the  crimson  glow 
Lights  up  the  peaceful  vale  below. 
With  all  the  wealth  of  Croesus  I 
Could  not  one- tenth  these  beauties  buy 
That  now  I  take  as  gift  so  free 
From  God'g  own  hand  of  love  to  me. 
They're  mine  to  hold  while  life  shall  last, 
Then  mine  a  heritage  more  vast. 
In  Christ's  last  will  and  testament 
To  me  the  blessed  news  was  sent 
That  to  immortal  life  I'm  heir, 
Within  the  many  mansions  fair 


DEIvPHINE.  31 

Where  He's  prepared  for  me  a  place, 

And  I  shall  see  Him  face  to  face. 

Thus  to  a  blessed  home  in  heaven 

To  me  a  title  deed  is  given ; 

A  document  no  court  can  break ; 

Sealed  with  His  name  and  for  His  sake 

Who  on  the  Cross  of  Calvary 

Hath  purchased  this  great  wealth  for  me. 

This  postscript  doth  the  will  attend  : 

'  Lo,  I  am  with  you  to  the  end.' 

To  David  Rook  the  deed  stands  sure 

To  mansions  that  for  aye  endure, 

Who  dwells  at  present  in  Delphine, 

To  him's  addressed  each  precious  line. 

0  friends  !  can  you  now  estimate 

The  value  of  my  great  estate  ?" 

George  Markham  smiled,  for  well  he  knew 
The  words  came  from  a  heart  that's  true. 
But  we  shall  equal  heirship  claim 
All  in  and  through  the  one  great  name, 
He  said ;  and  thus  the  talk  ran  on 
Until  the  time  was  almost  gone, 


32  DELPHINE. 

And  with  reluctance  must  adjourn; 
But  not  until  the  coffee  urn 
With  steaming  beverage  passed  around 
And  glad  recipients  had  found. 

As  when  the  faintest  streaks  of  light, 
At  early  dawn,  foretell  the  night 
Is  fast  receding,  and  the  Star 
Of  Morning  shines  above  the  bar 
Of  growing  crimson  that  will  soon 
Be  lost  in  the  resplendent  noon, 
So  with  McColl  His  break  of  day; 
The  shadows  lift,  and  far  away, 
Though  dimly,  he  begins  to  see 
The  meaning  of  faith's  ministry. 

"  That  we've  a  Friend,"  the  Master  said, 
Always  in  reach,  has  comforted 
More  hearts  than  eloquence  of  prayer 
Addressed  to  One  we  know  not  where. 
The  Man  of  Sorrows,  knowing  grief, 
Can  best  give  human  hearts  relief; 
And,  perfect  made  through  pufferirg, 
Can  unto  others  healing  bring; 


DELPHINE. 

Who  triumphed  in  temptation's  hour, 
Can  to  the  tempted  give  like  power; 
And  since  with  Christ  the  victory 
Was  gained  in  dark  Gethsemane, 
More  than  his  miracles  to  us 
His  earthly  life  and  lifted  Cross 
Whereon  He  paid  redemption's  price, 
The  one  great  living  sacrifice; 
And  thus  to  heaven  was  made  complete 
The  path  where  trod  His  sacred  feet. 
His  footprints  through  the  ages  trace 
That  storms  of  centuries  can't  efface ; 
And  in  His  steps  whoever  will 
May  find  the  pathway  shining  still. 
Through  prayer  unuttered  or  expressed 
The  prayerful  heart  is  always  blessed, 
And  feels  the  Christ  so  near  to  them 
That  they  can  touch  His  garment's  hem; 
To  trust  the  leading  of  His  hand 
A  little  child  can  understand." 
George  Markham  breathed  a  low  "amen"; 
McColl  the  same  repeated ;  then, 
With  heart  o'erfl owing  at  the  word, 
David  added  :     "  Yes,  praise  the  Lord  !" 


."•-I  DELPHINE. 

The  Master's  line  of  tender  thought 
Had  to  the  mind  of  Markham  brought 
Some  promises  that  always  shine 
From  Revelation's  sacred  mine; 
And  so  before  his  friends  he  bring- 
The  outline  of  his  ponderings. 

To  him  that  overcometh,  I 
\Vith  hidden  manna  will  supply; 
To  him  that  hath  an  ear  to  hear 
The  Spirit  ever  speaketh  clear; 
And  they  that  understand  shall  own 
A  new  name  written  in  white  stone, 
Which  no  man  knoweth  saving  he 
To  whom's  revealed  the  mystery ; 
The  simple  token  of  a  friend 
That  one  the  other  doth  commend. 
With  rich  embellishment  is  fraught 
Each  wide-extending  Scripture  thought. 
When  those  in  ancient  Athens  tried 
Acquittal  gained,  'twas  signified, 
And  dicast's  verdict  was  made  known, 
Just  by  the  white  and  unpierwl  stone. 


DELPHINK.  35 

When  each  in  turn  his  thought  expressed, 

With  growing  interest  manifest, 

David,  in  his  peculiar  way 

And  emphasis,  went  on  to  say : 

u  The  world  will  never  think  the  less 

Of  those  who  live  what  they  profess. 

'Tis  grander  far,  my  friends,  to  do, 

Than  merely  to  believe  what's  true. 

On  truth  that's  practical  the  Book 

Has  ever  taught  the  world  to  look. 

So  each  strange  face  that  meets  my  view, 

I  simply  think,  I  hope  that  you 

Are  one  whose  swift  and  willing  feet 

Are  for  the  dear  Lord's  use  made  meet ; 

On  mercy's  errands  oft  will  go, 

And  thus  your  love  to  Him  will  show. 

Much  of  our  sorrow  we  forget 

If  busy  for  the  King  we're  kept." 

"  O,  is  it  true?"  said,  half  aloud, 
McColl,  as  low  his  head  was  bowed ; 
"  I  really  think  I've  selfish  been, 
And  can  He  count  it  less  than  sin  ? 


DELPHIM:. 

To  turn  about  'tis  not  too  late, 
1  For  lo,'  One  says,  '  I  knock  and  wait.'  ' 
Whispered  Markharn  :     "  His  promise  claim, 
And  yours  the  white  stone  with  new  name." 

A  moment's  silence ;  when  they  drew 

Their  chairs  the  fireside  closer  to, 

The  Master  led  them  in  his  way 

To  view  a  picture  by  Dore 

That  once  he  saw.     With  pictured  word 

Their  hearts  with  admiration  stirred; 

And  when,  within  the  gallery  led, 

The  canvas  he  before  them  spread, 

So  plain  he  made  it  they  could  trace 

The  heart's  desire  upon  each  face. 

"The  Vale  of  Tears,"— thus  vividly 

Shows  forth  life's  sad  reality. 

The  background  dark,  which  is  immense, 

A  shadowy  valley  represents; 

And  at  the  entrance,  clothed  in  white, 

The  Savior  stands,  with  form  upright, 

Bearing  a  cross;  and  with  one  hand 

Upraised;  by  which  we  understand 

Is  invitation;  arched  around 


DELPHINE.  37 

His  head,  soft  rays  of  light  are  found, 

Thus  symbolizing  as  we  see 

Hope's  presence  even  here  may  be. 

The  middle  and  foreground  are  full 

Of  a  great  number  typical 

Of  weary,  heavy  laden  ones, 

From  beggars  e'en  to  kings  on  thrones. 

A  king  in  glorious  cloth  of  gold 

Turns  in  despair,  and  to  behold 

Beseechingly  Christ's  face;  and  near 

Him  stands  a  Roman  Emperor, 

Whose  brow  still  bears  the  laurel  wreath, 

With  toga  stained  with  blood  beneath, 

From  heart-wound  by  his  enemies 

Inflicted  through  mad  jealousies. 

The  maimed,  the  halt,  the  blind  are  there; 

A  dying  mother  to  His  care 

Commends  her  child  of  tender  years, 

With  pleading  look  and  flowing  tears. 

On  solitary  shelf  of  rock 

Despised  and  hated  lepers  flock; 

And  from  whatever  depth  of  loss, 

All  look  to  Christ  and  to  His  Cross. 


38  DELPHINE. 

Without  a  word  of  comment  made 
Upon  the  picture  thus  portrayed, 
And  made  indelible  within 
The  mind  of  each,  they  now  begin 
Their  hats  and  overcoats  to  take, 
And  with  a  hearty,  warm  hand-shake 
The  club  adjourns;  with  a  "good-night" 
They  step  out  in  the  clear  starlight. 

God  works  through  men;  and  they  who  heed 

The  great  commission  find  indeed 

A  satisfaction  that  extends 

And  is  complete  in  this:  His  friends. 

And  he  who  lifts  to  purer  air 

Of  heaven  a  soul  in  deep  despair 

Does  work  as  high  as  angels  do, 

And  through  a  means  they  never  knew. 

'Tis  thus  McColl  has  dared  commend 

His  life  unto  the  world's  best  Friend; 

And  from  the  faith-light  in  his  face 

Proves  heaven  a  state  as  well  as  place : 

That  near  by  is  the  heavenly  home 


DELPHINK.  39 

Where  loved  ones  wait  for  him  to  come. 

By  consecration  full,  all  doubt 

Has  from  his  heart  been  taken  out, 

And  heaven's  all  transcendent  light 

Has  swallowed  up  his  darkest  night. 

While  his  frail  body  still  declines 

The  help  of  breezes  from  the  pines 

And  from  the  hillsides  that  surround 

Dear  Delphine ;  and  while  he's  not  found 

What  here  he  sought  that  would  make  whole 

His  earthly  frame,  yet  for  his  soul 

He's  found  the  rest  longed  for  and  sweet, 

The  rest  eternal,  full,  complete; 

And  eager  expectations  shine 

Within  his  eyes  words  can't  define. 

How  pleasantly  and  swiftly  passed 
The  weeks ;  and  this  must  be  the  last 
Fond  meeting,  when  the  Club  adjourns. 
Each  guest  unto  his  home  returns 
Upon  the  morrow;  so  they  this  eve 
Mostly  to  reminiscence  give. 


40  DELPHIXK. 

And  hardly  now  do  they  begin 

When  light  refreshments  are  brought  in  ; 

The  fragrant  coffee  and  the  tea, 

Emblems  of  sociability; 

And  thoughts  of  parting  find  no  place 

To  mar  the  evening's  cheerfulness. 

An  added  interest,  by  the  way, 

This  meeting  holds;  'tis  the  birthday 

Of  David  Rook,  who  cheerily 

Proclaims  that  he  is  sixty-three; 

"In  hailing  distance  now,  almost, 

Of  yonder  shore  and  heavenly  host." 

Congratulations  all  extend 

To  him,  their  much  respected  friend; 

Whose  noble,  open,  manly  face 

Would  banish  gloom  from  any  place ; 

Who  never  let  his  left  hand  know 

Of  aught  of  good  his  right  would  do ; 

But  often  said,  "  Nothing  is  small; 

All  things  are  great,  for  God  made  all. 

That  life,"  he  said,  "  is  much  like  thi.=  . 

I  think,  except  that  I  shall  miss 


DELPHINE.  41 

My  rheumatism  over  there, 
And  that,  I  know,  I  well  can  spare; 
And  heaven's  rest  will  be  more  dear 
For  pain  and  loss  we've  suffered  here." 

14  Since  coming  here  I'm  led  to  see 
All  work  is  honored  equally 
If  honest  and  well  done  " — thus  spake 
The  man  of  business — "  and  I  take 
Fresh  courage,  since  l  the  Master  '  said 
Religion  and  business  should  be  wed ; 
That  they  are  like  the  different  strands 
Of  one  strong  rope;  and  if  it  stands 
United  thus,  it  surely  would 
Uphold  the  world  and  make  it  good. 
On  church  and  warehouse  God  bestows 
An  equal  blessing;  and  so  those 
Who  work  in  either  must  believe 
An  equal  recompense  receive ; 
And  what  is  preached  on  Sunday  must 
On  Monday  be  a  sacred  trust. 
All  service  true  is  for  the  Lord, 
And  always  brings  its  own  reward." 


42  DELPHINE. 

"  Speaking  of  service,"  Markham  ?aid, 
' '  When  but  a  child  I  often  read 
And  loved  the  legend  sweet  and  old 
Of  good  St.  Christopher,  the  bold, 
Tall  giant  at  the  river's  side, 
Where  flows  the  mighty  rolling  tide; 
And  neither  ford  nor  bridge  is  found 
To  help  the  pilgrims  hither  bound 
All  on  their  way  to  Rome;  no  lack 
The  faithful  find;  for  on  his  back 
Each  one  St.  Christopher  bears  o'er 
The  waters  deep  to  farther  shore. 
Prevailed  upon  he  could  not  be 
To  ever  take  the  smallest  fee 
When  to  the  Holy  City  they 
Found  help  from  him  upon  their  way. 
When  in  the  service  he'd  grown  old, 
One  night,  as  winds  blew  fierce  and  cold, 
A  plaintive  voice  and  of  a  child 
Rang  out  upon  the  air  so  wild : 
*  O,  dear,  good  Saint,  I  thee  implore 
To  carry  me  the  river  o'er.' 
Though  weary  and  in  need  of  sleep, 


DELPHINE.  43 

Nothing  could  from  his  loved  work  keep 
This  faithful  one;  and  so  he  takes 
The  child  upon  his  back,  and  makes, 
With  staff  in  hand,  as  oft  before, 
His  passage  to  the  other  shore; 
But  when  mid-way  the  waters  through 
So  very  great  his  burden  grew, 
And  heavier,  till  he  almost  sank 
Before  he  reached  the  farther  bank. 
Great  drops  of  sweat  began  to  pour 
From  off  his  brow  as  ne'er  before. 
At  last,  with  staggering  footsteps,  he 
Has  reached  the  shore,  and  tenderly 
Upon  the  bank  he  places  now 
The  child;  when  lo,  around  his  brow 
Beams  suddenly  a  radiant  light ! 
The  Savior  of  the  world  that  night 
He  carried  on  his  shoulders  broad, — 
The  world's  weight  with  the  Son  of  God. 

"  Only  a  legend,  but  we  find 
In  it  a  golden  truth  enshrined; 
That  humble  service  meaneth  much, 


44  DELPHIXE. 

And  hringeth  heaven  and  earth  in  touch; 

And  he  who  for  his  fellow  cares 

Thus  serves  the  Lord,  though  unawares. 

Dearer  than  legend  to  you  and  me 

Christ's  loving  wayside  ministry, 

Of  which  he  bids  us  all  partake, 

The  work  continue  for  His  sake 

Who  of  His  best  gave  to  the  few, 

Or  only  one,  as  like  unto 

The  lonely  woman  at  the  well, 

Who  straightway  doth  the  glad  news  tell. 

In  all  His  weary  journeyings 

The  word  of  life  He  always  brings, 

That  each  lone  wayfarer  may  find 

In  Him  a  friend  most  wondrous  kind." 

"  Ah,  yes,"  then  spake  McColl,  "  and  me, 

Like  blind  Bartimaeus,  makes  to  see; 

And  He  who  at  the  midnight  hour 

To  Nicodemus  with  such  power 

The  truth  proclaimed,  shall  one  day  greet 

The  whole  glad  world  brought  to  His  feet.; 

Now  with  these  words  a  silence  reigned 
t'ntil  their  thoughts  the  heights  attained. 


DBLPHINK.  45 


And  then,  to  break  the  magic  spell 

Of  thoughtfulness  that  on  them  fell, 

The  Master  says :     "  There  comes  to  me 

To-night  a  scene  most  vividly 

Of  nature's  untold  grandeur  vast; 

An  impress  made  while  life  shal)  last. 

When  through  the  Alps  of  Switzerland 

We  journeyed,  a  congenial  hand, 

We  climbed  the  glaciers  with  a  guide; 

To  him  and  to  each  other  tied 

We  made  the  slippery,  steep  ascent ; 

But  slowly,  firmly  as  we  went, 

Our  guide  a  chiseled  niche  would  make 

To  place  his  foot,  and  bade  us  take 

Great  caution,  and  to  put  within 

Each  niche  our  foot  where  his  had  been ; 

And  thus  our  safety  guaranteed 

By  giving  to  his  counsel  heed. 

When  at  the  height  of  ice  and  snow 

Our  guide  cried  out,  ;  Now  look  below, 

And  at  your  right !'     The  great  abyss 

Of  foaming  waters  seethe  and  hiss, 

And,  dashing  o'er  their  rocky  bed, 


4.1  DELPHINI-. 

Thousands  of  feet  beneath  our  tread, 

A  dizziness  bring  to  the  brain: — 

When  'To  your  left,  look  up!'  again 

Our  guide  pealed  forth;  a  lofty  height 

Of  granite  mountain  met  our  sight; 

Thus  firm,  unmovable  and  grand, 

It  seemed  like  grasp  of  unseen  hand 

To  save  us  from  the  depths  below, 

Where  feet  unguided  else  might  go. 

And  in  the  midst  I  pondered  thus: 

That  gulf,  temptation  is  to  us, 

Whose  mighty  waves  would  overwhelm 

Had  we  no  Pilot  at  the  helm. 

The  mountain  at  the  left,  God's  truth, 

A  tower  of  strength  to  age  and  youth; 

A  sheltering  rock  in  desert  land, 

A  refuge  that  for  aye  shall  stand. 

Its  depths  all  goodness  underlies; 

Its  summit  reaches  to  the  skies. 

To  find  life's  goal  a  surety  is 

To  place  our  feet  where  Christ  placed  His; 

And  in  His  footprints  safely  climb 

Ai)ove  the  changing  waves  of  time." 


DELPHINE.  47 

The  fire  burns  low  within  the  grate ; 
Our  social  friends  have  lingered  late; 
And  when,  with  slow,  commanding  power, 
The  clock  peals  forth  the  midnight  hour, 
The  Delphine  Club  again  adjourns; 
Each  to  his  separate  way  returns. 


48  BORROW  I ;  I). 


BORROWED. 

The  deepest  thoughts  ne'er  rind  a  voice 

Till  touched  by  sorrow; 
The  sweetest  music  on  the  earth 

From  grief  we  borrow. 

The  grandest  truths  that  find  a  place 

On  written  pages 
Are  found  within  or  borrowed  from 

The  Book  of  Ages. 

The  clouds  that  send  refreshing  rain 

In  bounteous  portion 
Give  back  what  they  have  borrowed  from 

The  mighty  ocean. 

Naught  stands  alone  and  separate 

In  full  completeness; 
The  fragrant  flower  must  yield  to  use 

Its  honeyed  sweetness. 


BORROWED.  49 

New  light  from  out  the  old-time  truths 

To-day  is  springing; 
And  echoes  from  the  distant  past 

Through  earth  are  ringing. 

As  it  has  been,  so  it  will  be, 

And  each  to-morrow 
From  out  the  golden  yesterdays 

Makes  haste  to  borrow. 


50  A  LOST  OPPORTUNITY. 


A  LOST;  OPPORTUNITY. 

It  came  and  went  so  quickly, 
My  sluggish  soul  saw  not 

The  Master  stand  and  beckoning 
Toward  one  of  humble  lot. 

And  I  rose  not  up  to  follow, 

So  slow  was  I  to  see, 
Till  the  help  I  might  have  given 

Forever  fled  from  me. 

And  often  I  am  grieving, 
And  longing  all  in  vain 

For  a  blessed  opportunity 
That  will  not  come  again. 

Dear  Lord  !  give  Thine  anointing, 
And  make  mine  eyes  to  see; 

And  make  me  swift  in  doing 
The  work  Thou  givest  me. 


AT  CHURCH.  51 


AT  CHURCH. 

A    TRUE    INCIDENT. 

The  morning  prayer  was  ended ; 

And  as  the  pastor  read 
Of  the  fullness  of  God's  mercy, 

And  the  loving  words  Christ  said, 

Then  tenderly  applied  them 

As  a  remedy  for  sin, 
Lo !  at  the  open  window 

A  little  dove  flew  in. 

At  the  pastor's  feet  alighted, 
And  looked  up  in  his  face, 

As  if  with  approbation ; 

And  sacred  seemed  the  place. 

O'er  all  the  congregation 

A  solemn  stillness  fell; 
Each  tender  heart  was  melted 

By  the  calm  and  holy  spell. 


52  AT  CHURCH. 

And  then  amidst  the  reading 
The  pastor  paused  and  said : 

May  this  dove  be  an  omen 
Of  good  unto  us  led  ; 

As  a  message  to  this  people, 
Sent  from  the  Father  above, 

As  a  token  of  His  pleasure 
And  everlasting  love. 

Thro'  all  the  morning  service 
The  dove  as  sentinel  stood 

By  the  pulpit  and  the  altar, 
An  interpreter  of  good. 

After  the  benediction, 
Lightly  flew  the  bird, 

And  rested  on  the  shoulder 
Of  him  who  preached  the  word. 

From  thence  upon  the  pulpit, 
On  the  Bible  perched  at  last ; 

And  gently  watched  the  people 
As  they  slowly  outward  passed, 


AT  CHURCH.  53 

So  like  the  calm  that  follows 

After  the  storm  doth  cease, 
Comes  the  spirit  as  a  dove, 

With  the  olive-branch  of  peace. 


54  JESUS  PASSED  BY. 


JESUS   PASSED   BY. 

A  famous  man  of  letters  sighed 

O'er  many  a  problem  deep, 
To  which  he'd  given  days  of  toil 

And  hours  of  needed  sleep. 

The  only  world  he  knew  was  books, 

And  not  the  world  of  men ; 
Thus  human  pleading  reached  him  not, 

Nor  human  woe  nor  pain. 

While  bending  o'er  his  weary  task, 

And  lifting  not  his  eye, 
Lo  !  all  unheeded  and  unseen 

The  loving  Christ  passed  by. 

And  still  he  digged  and  delved  to  solve 

Unfathomed  mystery; 
While  all  the  throbbing  world  moved  on, 

Nor  paused  his  work  to  see. 


JESUS  PASSED  BY.  55 

Some  fainted  'neath  their  burden  great 

For  cheering  words  unsaid ; 
But  still  he  plied  his  heavy  task 

With  bowed  and  reverend  head. 

And  dreamed  not  that  the  secret  dwelt 

In  the  multitude  so  vast, 
And  in  the  heart  of  grief  and  care 

The  loving  Christ  had  passed. 

The  rich  man  counted  o'er  his  gold, 
And  longed  and  grasped  for  more ; 

And  every  day  was  added  gain 
To  his  ever  growing  store. 

The  months  and  years  roll  swiftly  by 

With  an  unvarying  speed ; 
He  never  dreamed,  with  all  his  wealth, 

That  he  was  poor  indeed. 

And  while  he  piled  his  treasures  high, 

And  counted  one  by  one, 
Behold  a  stranger  fair  had  passed, 

The  Christ  had  come  and  gone. 


66  JESUS  PASSED  BY. 

So  one  and  all,  on  some  task  bent, 
We  look  not  up,  but  down ; 

In  raking  earthly  dust  and  straws 
See  not  the  lifted  crown. 

Thus  blessed  opportunities 
Fail  to  attract  the  eye, 

And  all  unheeded  till  we   feel 
That  Jesus  has  passed  by. 


SUNDAY  MORNING.  57 


SUNDAY   MORNING. 

Each  Sunday  morn  proclaims  a  risen  Lord ; 
An  oft  recurring  Easter  day  of  light; 
And  o'er  the  quiet  rural  village  rests 
Heaven's  sweetest  benediction  at  the  dawn 
Of  this  G-od's  holy  day. 

And  when  the  sun, 

Advancing  in  his  course,  the  zenith  nears, 
The  church-bell  chimes  call  to  the  house  of  prayer 
No  rich,  no  poor,  but  all  with  one  accord 
As  members  of  one  household  here  unite 
In  worship  of  the  one  great  God  of  love. 
And  with  the  organ's  ringing  tones  are  joined 
The  voices  of  the  worshipers  in  hymns 
Wedded  to  tunes  that  shall  forever  live, 
And  will  be  sung  till  time  shall  be  no  more ; 
Dear  "  Arlington  "  and  "  Coronation  "  grand, 
That  stirred  the  souls  of  saints  of  long  ago. 


58  srNDAV  MORNIXC, 

Then  in  petitions  at  the  throne  of  grace 
The  pastor  pleads  for  blessings  on  the  flock : 
Have  any  wandered  from  the  fold  away  ? 
Have  any  never  known  the  love  divine  ? 
Are  any  weary  with  their  load  of  sin  ? 
It  was  for  such  the  Shepherd  gave  His  life. 
O  bring  them  back  within  the  fold  to-day, 
To  rest  beneath  the  shadow  of  the  Grose; 
And  evermore  Thy  name  shall  have  the  praise. 

The  Scripture  reading  then  the  silence  broke : 
11  Let  not  your  heart  be  troubled,"  came  the  words, 
The  blessed,  tender  words  from  John  fourteen; 
Through  centuries  sweet  comfort  have  they  brought 
To  souls  distressed ;  and  to  the  longing  heart 
Glad  promises  of  "  many  mansions  "  fair. 

Through  panes  of  tinted  glass  the  sunlight  streams 
And  sheds  a  mellow  light  across  the  pews; 
Lights  up  with  peace  the  face  of  hoary  age, 
And  little  children  smile  beneath  the  rays ; 
While  every  face  bespeaks  deep  gratitude 
For  blessings  past  and  blessings  of  to-day  ; 
True  witnesses  of  God's  unchanging  love. 


SUNDAY  MORNING.  59 

Now  toward  the  sacred  desk  all  eyes  are  turned 
For  text  recorded  in  the  Book  of  books; 
When  lo,  from  John  fourteen  the  pastor  reads 
Christ's  words:  I  am  the  way,  the  truth,  the  life. 
"  I  am  the  way."     No  other  way  is  known 
Wherein  earth's  pilgrims  safe  may  journey  on 
Through  sorrow's  night  or  wild  temptation's  storm 
And  reach  at  last  the  endless  joys  of  home. 
"  I  am  the  truth."     The  question  that  of  old 
Perplexed  the  sages  oft  is  answered  here 
Complete  and  full.     Who  knows  the  Christ  knows 

truth ; 

Then  doubt  no  more,  0  troubled  heart,  but  find 
In  Him  the  mystery  solved  and  be  at  peace. 
"  I  am  the  life."     What  is  so  dear  as  life, 
Or  promise  sweet  as  life  that  never  ends? 
Rich  gift  from  Him  who  died  but  rose  again, 
And  thus  forever  more  hath  power  to  say 
"I  am  the  life." 


SUNDAY  MORNING. 

With  closing  hymn  of  praise, 
And  with  bowed  heads  the  benediction  given, 
The  people  pass  from  out  the  sacred  place. 
One  service  less  on  earth  for  them  to  share  ; 
One  morning  nearer  to  the  courts  above; 
A  little  nearer  to  earth's  journey's  end; 
And  nearer  loved  ones  lost  from  sight  awhile, 
But  loving  still. 

0  blessed  Sabbath  morn  ! 

"We  hail  thy  peaceful  hours  and  hallowed  joys  ; 
The  calm  that  reigns  o'er  nature's  wide  domain ; 
In  pleasant  pastures  green  the  cattle  graze, 
And  groves  are  ringing  with  the  song  of  birds. 
The  bending  forests  and  the  blooming  fields 
Do  but  show  forth  the  wisdom  and  the  power 
That  formed  their  grandeur  and  their  beauty  gave. 
The  azure  sky  through  fleecy  clouds  looks  down ; 
The  day-star  shines  and  over  all  is  peace. 


THE  SWORD  OF  THE  LORD  AND  OF  GIDEON."     61 


"THE  SWORD  OF  THE  LORD  AND  OF  GIDEON. 

'Tis  night ;  and  the  hosts  of  Midian 
Are  down  in  the  valley  asleep ; 

Their  strong  men  dreaming  of  victory — 
Of  glory  they're  waiting  to  reap. 

Down  in  the  valley  of  Jezreel, 

Asleep ;  and  their  shields  and  spears 

Are  glistening  now  in  the  moonlight, 
With  naught  suggestive  of  fears. 

With  their  plunder  and  camels  about  them, 
The  Midianites  take  their  ease  ; 

Nor  dream  of  approaching  danger. 
Or  of  God's  allwise  decrees. 

O  never  did  Mount  Gilboa 

Stand  witness  to  such  a  sight ! — 

To  so  large  a  host  stand  sentinel, 
As  on  that  eventful  night. 


62     "  THE  SWORD  OF  THE  LORD  AND  OF  GIDEON." 

But  now  the  decisive  moment 

Brings  a  small  but  conquering  band  ; 

And  over  the  hills  and  valleys 

Sounds  forth  the  startling  command  : 

"  The  sword  of  the  Lord  and  of  Gideon  !" 
Rings  out  on  the  clear  night  air ; 

With  lamps  and  pitchers  and  trumpets, 
Lo  !  Israel's  army  draws  near. 

Only  the  faithful  three  hundred  ; 

But  sufficient  to  scatter  the  foe ; 
With  God  and  the  right  in  battle, 

All  the  enemy's  ranks  lie  low. 

Behold  !  the  signal  is  given: 

4<  Blow  ye  the  trumpets  !"  'tis  done ; 

And  with  the  strangest  artillery 
The  soldiers  of  Gideon  won. 

"The  sword  of  the  Lord  and  of  Gideon !" 
We  may  hear  the  call  to-day ; 

While  the  sound  of  the  Gospel  trumpet 
Peals  forth  to  prepare  the  way 


THE  SWORD  OF  THE  LORD  AND  OF  GIDEON."     63 

For  the  coming  and  for  the  reigning 

Of  the  Prince  of  Righteousness  ; 
For  the  vanquishing  of  all  evil, 

And  the  blessed  dawn  of  peace. 

The  brave  are  summoned  and  sifted, 
For  not  in  numbers  lies  strength  ; 

But  they  whom  the  Lord  hath  chosen 
Shall  garner  the  harvest  at  length. 

The  few,  like  Gideon's  army, 

With  Jehovah  hath  e'er  sufficed  ; 

And  the  earth  becomes  the  kingdom 
Of  our  Lord  and  of  His  Christ. 


64  INASMUCH. 


INASMUCH. 

Inasmuch  as  time  is  fleeting, 
.  And  eternity  is  long, 
Inasmuch  as  many  sorrows 

Intermingle  with  our  song, 
We  would  better  gra?p  the  moments, 

Use  them  as  they  swiftly  fly, 
Making  of  them  sheaves  all  golden 

For  the  harvest  by  and  by. 

Inasmuch  as  good  and  evil 

Wait  each  spirit  at  demand, 
Inasmuch  as  many  falter, 

Missing  oft  the  guiding  hand, 
We  would  better  lend,  if  may  be, 

Our  small  aid  while  they  are  nigh, 
It  will  help  to  make  the  reaping 

Sweeter  in  the  by  and  by. 


INASMUCH.  65 

Inasmuch  as  'mong  life's  roses 

There  is  many  an  ugly  thorn, 
Inasmuch  as  pain  and  pleasure 

With  each  human  soul  are  born, 
We  would  better  pluck  the  roses, 

Though  the  thorns  may  pierce  us  sore, 
We  would  better  claim  the  treasures, 

Make  them  ours  fore  verm  ore. 

Inasmuch  as  life  is  ever 

Filled  with  conflicts  fierce  and  strong, 
Inasmuch  as  truth  will  sometime 

Surely  vanquish  all  the  wrong, 
We  would  better  help  to  hasten 

On  the  glad  and  joyous  day; 
It  will  make  the  resting  sweeter 

If  we  labor  while  we  may. 

Inasmuch  as  great  achievements 

Only  can  be  won  by  few, 
Inasmuch  as  earthly  laurels 

May  not  come  to  me  nor  you, 
We  would  better  do  what  labor 

Daily  meets  us  at  each  hand, 
Nor  be  idly  waiting  ever 

For  some  greater  to  command. 


66  INASMUCH. 

Inasmuch  as  we  have  rendered 

Good  unto  the  least  that  be, 
"  So,  indeed,"  says  Christ  the  Master 

"Ye  have  done  it  unto  Me." 
What  reward  more  great  or  mighty 

Need  we  ever  hope  to  win, 
If  with  this  most  gracious  welcome, 

Pearly  gates  we  enter  in  ? 


THE  ANGEL  OF  PATIENCE.  67 


THE     ANGEL     OF     PATIENCE. 

The  days  are  so  short,  said  the  toiler ; 

It's  hurry  and  worry  and  fret ; 
And  the  prize  that  waits  my  coming 

Remains  in  the  distance  yet ; 
There's  no  rest  for  the  brain  so  weary, 

No  rest  for  the  aching  feet ; 
But  they  tell  me  on  fame's  high  summit 

The  earth-life  is  made  complete  ; 
So  I  work  and  worry  and  struggle 

From  early  morn  until  late  ; — 
A  voice  beside  him  spoke  softly, 

The  Angel  of  Patience  said  "Wait." 

The  days  are  so  long,  said  the  idler ; 

This  world's  a  dreary  old  place  ; 
There's  nothing  here  worth  the  taking, 

There's  nothing  but  time  will  erase  ; 
Even  my  dreams  bring  no  pleasure, 

A  sham  is  the  world  of  mankind ; 


68  THE  ANGEL  OF  PATIENCE. 

Thus  idly  I  wait  for  the  ending 

Of  the  farce  where  the  players  are  blind  ; 

'This  life  is  a  great  disappointment. 
And  failure  in  all  things  doth  lurk;- 

A  voice  beside  him  spoke  loudly, 
The  Angel  of  Patience  said  "Work." 

The  days  are  so  sad,  said  the  mourner, 

The  world's  full  of  sorrow  and  grief; 
All  in  vain  do  I  look  for  the  day-break, 

And  continually  sigh  for  relief ; 
No  joy  do  I  find  in  the  spring-time, 

Nor  beauty  in  summer's  full  bloom ; 
The  earth  is  a  great  barren  desert, 

Naught's  real  but  death  and  the  tomb ; 
The  clouds  hang  so  heavy  above  ine, 

There's  surely  more  darkness  than  day  ;- 
A  voice  beside  him  spoke  sweetly, 

The  Angel  of  Patience  said  "Pray" 


THL  ANGEL  OF  PATIENCE. 

The  days  are  so  full,  said  the  faithful ; 

And  let  them  be  short,  sad  or  long, 
I'll  do  the  best  thing  that's  next  to  me, 

And  cheer  all  my  labor  with  song ; 
This  dear  old  world's  full  of  beauty, 

The  harvest  is  fruitful  and  fair ; 
In  waiting  and  working  and  praying, 

I  surety  will  gather  my  share 
To  lay  at  the  feet  of  the  Master 

In  yonder  bright  heavenly  home ;  — 
A  voice  beside  him  spoke  gladly, 

The  Angel  of  Patience  said  "Come." 


70  WORDS  MY  MOTHER  TAUGHT  ME. 


WORDS     MY     MOTHER     TAUGHT     ME. 

Dreaming  tonight  in  the  firelight's  glow, 

Sweet  saintly  faces  come  and  go , 

And  through  the  years  come  softly  stealing 

The  tender  words  my  mother  said, 
As  she  nightly  kissed  and  tucked  me 
Close  within  my  trundle  bed  : — 

"  Now  darkness  shades  the  distant  hills, 

The  little  birds  are  hid  and  still ; 

And  we  a  quiet  sleep  may  take, 

For  our  Creator  is  awake." 

The  childlike  song  my  spirit  thrills, — 
"Now  darkness  shades  the  distant  hills;" 
He  who  keeps  the  birds  from  falling 

Keepeth  thee  through  fear  and  pain  ; 
And  then  soothingly  and  softly 
Comes  her  gentle  voice  again  : 
"  'Tis  sweet  upon  my  little  bed 
To  think  the  Savior  guards  my  head  ; 
And  He  a  helpless  child  can  keep 
Through  all  the  silent  hours  of  sleep." 


WORDS  MY  MOTHER  TAUGHT  ME.  71 

I  backward  turn  the  leaves  and  look 
At  the  first  pages  of  life's  book ; 
And  now  as  then  her  words  repeating : 
"  And  He  a  helpless  child  can  keep," 
I'calmly  rest  in  childhood's  faith 

' '  Through  all  the  silent  hours  of  sleep." 

"  Now  darkness  shades  the  distant  hills, 

The  little  birds  are  hid  and  still ; 

And  we  a  quiet  sleep  may  take, 

For  our  Creator  is  awake." 


72  THE  BENEDICTION. 


THE   BENEDICTION. 

"Grace,  mercy  and  peace,"  the  pastor  said, 

At  the  close  of  the  Sabbath  day, 
"  Be  with  you  now  and  evermore." 

And  the  people  went  their  way, 
From  Sabbath  rest  to  week-day  work ; 

And  I  wondered  if  the  spell 
Of  the  blessed  benediction  given 

Would  guard  their  footsteps  well 
From  dangers  seen  and  unseen  oft 

That  crowd  a  busy  life  ; 
Would  the  blessed  peace  of  the  Master  calm 

The  fever  and  the  strife  ? 


THE  BENEDICTION.  73 

"  Grace,  mercy  and  peace,"  three  living  words 

Of  sweetness  and  of  power ; 
0  linger  with  us  evermore, 

As  on  the  Sabbath  hour ; 
"  Grace,"  that  giveth  strength,  when  fails 

The  help  of  human  hand  ; 
"Peace,"  that  calms  the  troubled  heart, 

Ever  at  Christ's  command ; 
"Mercy,"  that  cometh  from  above, 

Earth's  weary  ones  to  bless, 
And  spreads  o'er  all  its  healing  wings, 

The  wings  of  tenderness." 


xT®***" 

or  THE 
UNIV^siTY 

.      .    °F 


NOTE. 


If  any  doubting  soul  shall  be  led  to  a  stronger  faith  in 
Christ,  or  the  shadows  be  lifted  from  any  sorrowing  heart, 
that  the  light  of  heavenly  truth  and  love  shine  in,  by  the 
reading  of  this  little  book,  it  will  have  fulfilled  its  mis 
sion. 

For  some  of  the  thoughts  and  incidents  contained  in 
"  Delphine  "  I  am  indebted  to  Rev.  George  H.  Hepworth 
and  Bishop  Breyfogel.  L.  A.  N. 


74 


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CO 
0-5 
30 


YC   15861 


M8964 


